KS2 Geography: Settlements – Exploring Hamlets, Villages, Towns and Cities
KS2 Geography: Settlements Workshop Overview
In this hands-on KS2 geography settlements workshop, students will investigate the development and structure of human settlements, from tiny hamlets to bustling cities. Aligned with the National Curriculum focus on human geography, land use, and settlement types, this workshop brings map skills and locational knowledge to life through discussion and practical building activities.
KS2 Learners will explore the characteristics and functions of each type of settlement and examine why settlements are located where they are.
Using LEGO bricks, students will construct their own models, visualising how settlements grow and interconnect.
Workshop Learning Objectives
By participating in this KS2 Geography: Settlements workshop, students will:
- Identify and describe different types of human settlements: hamlet, village, town, and city.
- Discuss what type of settlement their school is located in.
- Understand the factors that influence where and why people settle.
- Explore land use and how settlements evolve over time.
- Use and interpret basic maps, keys, and symbols related to settlement geography.
- Develop teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving through collaborative building challenges.
Workshop Learning Outcomes
By the end of the Geography school workshop students will be able to :
- Classify settlements based on size, features, and function.
- Explain key reasons why certain settlements develop in specific locations (e.g., access to water, transport links, resources).
- Construct and describe a model of a settlement using appropriate terminology.
- Use hands-on learning to reinforce their understanding of engineering and structural design.
- Demonstrate improved geographical vocabulary and improved map-reading confidence.
What to Expect From Our KS2 Geography: Settlements Workshop
This cross-curricular school workshop seamlessly blends Geography and Design & Technology, engaging KS2 students through storytelling, discussion, and hands-on problem-solving. The session introduces students to the topic of Settlements in a fun, engaging and hands-on way designed to leave a lasting impression. Key aspects of the workshop include:
Geographical Investigation: Explore how human settlements form and grow.
Map Skills Activity: Use simple keys and features to interpret a fictional settlement map.
Hands-On LEGO Building: Create a range of settlement types with increasing complexity.
Team Discussions: Reflect on settlement growth, purpose, and changes over time.
Cross Curricular Links: Apply knowledge in geography, design, and collaborative planning.
Hands-On Workshop Activity Details
During the 75 minute workshop the students will:
KS2 Students will take part in two main LEGO building challenges:
Settlement Type Construction: Working in pairs, pupils will be assigned a building / structure to construct and add to the chosen settlement type.
Collaborative Settlement Map: Pairs will place their models onto a shared base to form a fictional region, linking roads, rivers, and land use features to explore interdependence between settlements.
Why KS2 Students Will Enjoy This Geography Workshop
This school workshop turns abstract geography terms into tangible models, giving KS2 students the chance to visualise and build what they have learned.
The use of LEGO bricks sparks creativity, generates excitement and supports kinaesthetic and visual learners.
Children enjoy working as part of a team while designing and explaining real-world concepts in a way that feels like play, but delivers deep learning.
Breakdown Of Duration
This KS2 Geography: Settlements workshop is a total of 75 minutes long.
- Introduction & Discussion (10 mins): What are settlements? Why do they matter?
- Activity 1 (35 mins): Build your assigned settlement type.
- Activity 2 (20 mins): Assemble all settlements into a regional map and connect them.
- Summary, Photos & Tidy-up (10 mins) – Showcase builds, reflect on learning, and conclude.
Pricing Information
Our KS2 Geography school workshops provide exceptional educational value and hands-on experiences for students.
Pricing is tailored based on location, group size, and session length. Please contact us to discuss your requirements and receive a personalised quote
Enquire about this KS2 Geography: Settlements workshop today
Discover how the ‘KS2 Geography: Settlements‘ workshop can bring the topic to life in your classroom. Contact Build to Learn today to enquire about availability and tailored options for your school!
With over a decade of experience as the founder of Brickies Club Limited, I have inspired thousands of children aged 4 to 16 to develop creativity and problem-solving skills through LEGO-based activities. Now leading Build to Learn Limited, I deliver hands-on workshops that align with curriculum goals in STEM, history, and more. My expertise extends beyond practical delivery, incorporating a deep understanding of diverse learning styles to create impactful, memorable sessions that foster teamwork, curiosity, and critical thinking.
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